From his early promise in junior formulae to his breakthrough wins and recent podiums, here’s a journey through the defining moments that have shaped Carlos Sainz into one of Formula 1’s top talents.
Carlos Sainz Jr. has carved a remarkable path in Formula 1 since his debut in 2015. Son of two-time World Rally Champion Carlos Sainz Sr., he quickly proved his own talent with a combination of relentless determination and patient racecraft. His career is sprinkled with milestones that mark both progress and resilience.
Sainz made his F1 debut at Toro Rosso alongside Max Verstappen, showing consistent pace but limited by machinery. The turning point came in 2017 when he moved to Renault, gaining more responsibility and experience. The 2019 season saw him join McLaren, where he secured his first Formula 1 podium at the Brazilian Grand Prix by smartly climbing from 20th on the grid to third at the flag, a performance that introduced his racing maturity to the wider world.
In 2021, Sainz joined Ferrari, stepping into the shoes of Sebastian Vettel. His arrival coincided with a challenging period for the team but he quickly adapted, delivering consistent points finishes and bringing stability. The highlight of his time at Ferrari came in 2022, when Sainz claimed his first Formula 1 victory at the British Grand Prix after a thrilling multi-car battle. He demonstrated his tactical intelligence and composure under pressure, essential traits for race winners.
2023 added further gloss to his record, with race wins in Singapore and multiple podiums, showcasing his growth into a consistent front-runner. He is praised for his ability to work seamlessly with teammates, notably Charles Leclerc, aiding Ferrari’s return to competitiveness in the hybrid era.
After a surprise switch in 2025, Sainz joined Williams, where he continued to impress despite the team’s struggles. Notably, he secured a podium at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, becoming one of the few drivers to earn podiums for Ferrari, McLaren, and Williams, an accomplishment that highlights his adaptability and skill.
Beyond his on-track achievements, Sainz is respected for his racecraft, tactical acumen, and consistency. He has 4 race wins, 28 podiums, and 6 pole positions, statistics that underline his steady rise and potential to challenge at the very front in coming seasons.
Carlos Sainz’s career is all about perseverance and growth, from a promising young talent to a proven race winner.